What inspired you to get involved in the school board, and what drives your passion for education?
Initially, I was interested in understanding school funding. Over the years, my passion has developed into wanting to go deeper into the lives and the needs of students—all students.
Funding is one important piece, however students come to us every day from such diverse places; homes that have much, homes that have little or nothing. We see students who are living in pain and need continuous mental health support.
My passion is helping to develop and being a part of a world that works for everyone—a world that values every student, right where they are at each moment and inspires hope for them to discover and to live into their goals and dreams.
Our students need support from adults who believe that they're capable of anything, and that they can do great things, and it is reasonable that they rely on us for support and wisdom.
Can you share a specific experience or project from your time as a school board member that has been particularly rewarding or memorable for you?
I worked on a teacher evaluation tool that created a consistent rubric. It provided an opportunity to work with the Maine School Boards Association and a group of teachers and staff, committed to creating a growth metric rather than a “gotcha.” Growth is the most important part of any job that touches the lives of children/students.
But perhaps the most rewarding and challenging thing was our high school turf project. We are not a wealthy district, and athletics has traditionally helped students not only to feel motivated to come to school, but also build a sense of belonging and purpose, while rallying support and spirit from the community and—paired with academic requirements—to cross the finish line and celebrate the joy of graduation and the promise of a successful future.
In 2019, we began raising money. Just as we'd raised just about half of the resources needed, the pandemic arrived. We needed to pause and wait, or we needed to find another method to keep it moving. We decided to enlist the help and support of local businesses, and the labor was donated to finish the project. With the help of local business donations, we finished our field, our “snack shack,” and a donor wall with the beginnings of landscaping that is ongoing.
It has been a great boost for our entire district and youth sports! It seems silly, but athletics is a huge piece of what brings our community together and what brings the local heroes from days gone by back to a place of recognition.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a school board member, and how have you worked to overcome them?
The biggest challenges are pretty current. The small focused groups that are hateful to students who are perceived to be different. I think it's a big idea to support every student, and that parents don't necessarily lean into that naturally. They want to support “their” students and are not necessarily interested/ready to consider what “every” student actually means.
Solving these issues is ongoing. I'm remembering to practice patience, but also to not be afraid to speak the difficult truths. In Maine, we represent students and the legislature is our "boss.” We cannot do the work that we do without parental partnerships, so my messaging has been around helping communities understand and perhaps strengthen our partnership by working together toward the same goal while following the law at the same time. Not accomplished yet but am feeling inspired to continue as I am having small but meaningful successes along the way. Our kids need us now more than ever.
What are some goals or initiatives you are currently working on in your local school district?
Truth and honesty first and foremost. We've also begun a strategic plan using community members and artificial intelligence to design a document that encompasses our facilities, our curriculum, staffing needs, and needed growth potential across the district with the support of community and staff.
Our goal is a living document and increased communication and buy-in from all parties. It’s handy in a climate where truth and real information is hard to tease out. We're striving to be trustworthy partners.
What's your “superpower” (can be in or outside of the boardroom)?
My superpower is communicating and not being afraid of conflict. I don't enjoy it, but I am aware that it’s necessary to displace the elephant in the room and I'm happy to be a part of that—in and out of the board room.
What was your first (or most memorable) NSBA event and what made it memorable?
The two speakers at the first advocacy event I attended were Herman Boone and Dr. Martin Luther King’s daughter Bernice. My son Jake, and my husband (his dad) came to DC with me. I attended the conference while they enjoyed the city. Jake is a football player and his favorite movie at that time was (still is) “Remember the Titans.” Herman Boone was the coach. He was inspiring and gave time to an adolescent football player and student, encouraging balance as a student and an athlete. It's a memory we talk often about. My son is now a 25-year-old college graduate and an athlete all four years.
He’s now pursuing graduate studies and working to become a Certified Mental Performance Counselor (CMPC). All because of public education and the benefits/challenges it provides.
NSBA provides opportunities to see the bigger picture. It provides opportunities to take a deeper dive--a deeper look. From the very first moment, I've wanted to be a part of this association.
Outside of your role on the school board, what are some of your interests or hobbies that people might not know about?
The ocean is my favorite place. The beach – no matter how crowded provides peace. My family grew up sailing on the coast of Maine. Sailing takes focus and patience. It's been a great way to grow up.
Or a “fun fact” you would like to share?
I love ducks and the unintended joy that they provide! I could just hang out with them for hours and love them as pets!